Moving homes is a common part of life, whether due to job changes, downsizing, or a desire for a change. However, the process can be challenging. In this guide, we explore the benefits and drawbacks of traditional moving companies compared to renting a shipping container for your move, helping you make an informed decision.
Difference Between Moving Container Companies and Shipping Container Companies
When it comes to moving, you have two primary options: traditional moving companies and shipping container rental services.
Traditional Moving Companies:
- Comprehensive services, including packing, loading, transportation, and unloading.
- Fixed schedules and potentially higher costs due to labor and service fees.
Shipping Container Rental Services:
- Flexibility to pack and unpack at your own pace.
- Cost-effective, especially for long-distance moves, as most traditional movers charge by mileage.
- Dual functionality as a storage unit.
Advantages of Using Shipping Container Rental for Moving
- Cost-Effective Solution
One of the biggest advantages of using shipping containers for moving is cost-effectiveness. Renting a shipping container is often more affordable than hiring a moving company or renting a truck. By opting for a shipping container, you can save on labor costs and transportation fees. - Secure and Weather-Resistant
Shipping containers are built to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide excellent protection for your belongings during transit. Made from durable steel, these containers are designed to keep your items safe and secure throughout the moving process. They are also weather-resistant, ensuring that your possessions stay dry and undamaged, even in inclement weather. - Versatile Storage Options
Shipping containers come in various sizes, including the popular 20-foot containers. These containers offer ample space to accommodate a significant amount of belongings. A 20-foot shipping container can hold approximately 1,150 to 1,300 cubic feet of goods. This allows you to pack and store a substantial portion of your household items, reducing the need for additional storage units. - Flexibility in Rental Options
Whether you need a container for a short-term or long-term rental, On-Site Storage Solutions offers flexible rental options to suit your needs. You can choose a minimum rental period for a temporary move or opt for a long-term rental if you require extended storage. This flexibility allows you to customize your rental duration according to your specific moving timeline.
Disadvantages of Using Shipping Containers
- Labor: You’re responsible for loading and unloading your belongings.
- Additional Costs: Hiring a driver and chassis for transportation can increase overall expenses.
- Restrictions and Permits: Depending on local regulations, you may need permits to place a container on your property.
Advantages of Using Moving Companies
- Comprehensive Services: They handle everything from packing to transportation, saving time for local and long-distance moves.
- Experience: Expertise in packing fragile items and moving large items safely.
Disadvantages of Using Moving Companies
- Cost: This can be more expensive due to labor and service fees.
- Fixed Schedules: Operate on set schedules, which may not be convenient for everyone.
Cost Considerations
When considering the cost of moving, using a portable storage container can often save you money, especially for long-distance local moves. Renting a container typically has a lower upfront cost compared to hiring traditional movers. In addition, you might have to consider the expenses involved in employing a driver and renting a chassis for moving the container to its new site.
On the other hand, regular moving companies ask you to pay based on how heavy your stuff is and how far it has to go. They also add extra costs for packing supplies, assistance, and putting things in/taking things out of the truck.
These fees can quickly accumulate. While the convenience of professional services may be appealing, it often comes with a higher price. Consider your budget and moving needs before making a decision.
Labor Requirements
Traditional moving companies offer comprehensive services, taking care of every step of your relocation process. This includes packing your belongings, loading them onto a truck, driving to your new location, and unloading everything upon arrival. The convenience of this all-inclusive service is that you don’t have to worry about the heavy lifting, literally.
Contrarily, with renting a shipping container, customers are primarily responsible for loading and unloading their belongings. This means you’re in charge of packing your items and organizing the container.
Storage Options
One of the unique advantages of moving containers is their dual functionality as storage units. Customers have the ability to store their belongings in the container before, during, or after their move, depending on their needs.
This flexibility can be incredibly beneficial for those who need transitionary storage space during a move. If you need a storage place that keeps a steady temperature, a movable storage box from a company like On-Site Storage Solutions could be really good. You can use it for moves that are nearby or far away.
In contrast, traditional moving companies typically operate on a “pack, move, and unload” model. This means your belongings must be unloaded and organized immediately upon arrival at your new location. If you require storage, you’ll have to arrange it separately, which could mean additional costs and logistics.
Transportation Differences
With regular moving companies, your stuff goes straight to your new place, with experts doing the driving. This removes the stress of navigating a moving truck through traffic or over long distances.
On the other hand, renting a shipping container operates differently. Once the shipping container is delivered, you have the option to either personally load it with your belongings or hire assistance to handle the task for you.
You will need to hire a chassis or flat rack to move it to another location, and you will also need to hire professionals for the driver and unloading of the container so you don’t have to worry about driving a large moving vehicle. However, this means you’ll need to be prepared to unpack and arrange your stuff when the container reaches your new place.
On-Site Storage Solutions
No matter the size of your move, shipping containers can be an excellent resource to streamline the process and protect your possessions. On-Site Storage Solutions is here for you! With over 60+ locations across the United States and Canada, we provide a wide array of container sizes and options. From traditional dry van containers to Refrigerated climate control storage, we offer the ideal size and setup for every relocation to make your move easier. Contact us today at (888) 405-8772 for a free quote and let us help you get your belongings on the road!
